The Key to Effective Discipleship

STORY BY RUTH MENDOZA

Any new activity we want to accomplish requires that we learn it one step at a time. It is very helpful to have someone guiding us as we gradually become able to stand on our own to experience success independently. Discipling is like learning a new activity, only we don’t become independent. Instead, we learn to be increasingly dependent on the Father, who equips us through the Holy Spirit to overcome the trials and pressures of this life and become more Christ-like. That increased dependency is a strengthened relationship with God through his son, Jesus. Christ obeyed the Father (John 6:38), loved others (John.15:9-13), made more disciples (John.8:31), produced good fruit (Matthew. 4:19), and remained firm in his conviction (John.14:6). Jesus’ obedience, love, actions, and steadfastness model a relationship-oriented approach to discipling others. Discipling is staying actively engaged in the training of others who have committed to becoming a follower of Christ and are willing to lead a life that exalts our Father.

Christ on earth was someone who would walk and talk with others. This is key for discipleship to be effective. Let’s not assume new believers, on their own, will miraculously learn how to grow spiritually and become an active disciple without any guidance. As mature Christians, we understand that a new believer also needs to learn how to become aware of and understand the Holy Spirit that dwells within them. We know the journey a new believer is about to embark upon, we have experienced the first steps, the falls, the frustration, and the joy it is to trust God in the process. This has equipped us to equip others.

I want to encourage you to go the extra mile and disciple those who receive and accept the gospel of Jesus Christ.

♦ Think of your walk and remember those who prayed for you as you started your journey. Ask the Lord to place someone in your life to disciple and begin praying for them and the relationship you both are about to build.

♦ Our experience allows us to be intentional about starting relationships with new believers. Do not be afraid to talk to them, walk with them, and sit with them. These actions help ease any nerves and build trust. This trust is needed so they feel safe asking questions and expressing concerns.

♦ Our experience allows us to be real with new believers. They need to know we understand. Don’t be afraid to use the phrase “I struggle/struggled with this/that.” This allows them to see our humanity and brings us to a more personal level with them.

The purpose of discipling is that new believers become disciples who make disciples for Christ.